By SUNS Media.
Kids around the country are lacing up their boots as tens of thousands of boys and girls across Australia return to NAB AFL Auskick.
Gold Coast Suns Senior Coach Stuart Dew will now be one of those parents providing weekly taxi duties with children Frankie and Jack joining Mudgeeraba Spartans Auskick Centre in 2021.
“My kids have registered for Auskick this season, they’ve got their backpack with their name, a footy and footy cards so they are pretty happy, revved up and ready to go,” Dew said.
While programs in 2020 were shortened, or cancelled in some states due to COVID-19, participation in community NAB AFL Auskick on the Gold Coast has seen extraordinary growth in the past 12 months with an increase of 32 per cent. The effect of the AFLW competition in encouraging girls to play football is evident with a 42 per cent increase in girls participation, and a 30 per cent increase in boys participation.
Mudgeeraba Spartans Auskick is one club that has seen significant growth across their registrations for 2021 with the young girls and boys receiving a surprise this week when told they would be meeting the Sun’s coach ahead of playing in the half-time match between the Suns and Sydney Swans at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.
“Any sport introduction is good and Auskick is a fantastic program, for ages 5-12, there’s no contact it’s all about having fun, getting lots of touches and meeting new people,” Dew added.
“It’s great to have the kids from Mudgeeraba Auskick here today, they are going to play at half-time on Saturday, which is exciting for all the kids. My kids haven’t slept since they found out they are playing it will be a great day for the kids.”
NAB AFL Auskick programs are the best way for boys and girls to experience footy for the first time, no matter knowledge, skills or ability and a great and fun way for kids and parents to get involved and get active together.
Parents and guardians can find their local NAB AFL Auskick centre and register at play.afl/auskick
